Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #9 — Entertainment

Picture: Counsel #9 — Entertainment CR 40.1

There’s always a clear difference between the things that draw you closer to God and the things that pull you away. Places like bars, nightclubs, and parties where alcohol is flowing, people are dressed to attract attention, and music promotes lust or reckless behavior are not environments where your faith can grow.^[39] CR 40.2

In fact, those environments will more often reflect the old life God is calling you out of, not the new life He’s inviting you into. When you’re in those places, it becomes harder to think about purity, purpose, or even who you’re called to become. The atmosphere is designed to feed your flesh, not your spirit. That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun as a Christian, but it does mean you should be mindful of where you go and what you’re exposing your heart and mind to. As Christians, God calls us to live in the light, not to flirt with darkness. The truth is, your surroundings shape your choices, your thoughts, and even your identity. So, ask yourself: Is this place helping me become more like Christ, or more like who I used to be? CR 40.3

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” Ephesians 5:8 NIV CR 40.4

“True Christians will have an experience like that of Christ in the wilderness of temptation…” Ellen White in Christ Triumphant, p. 210 CR 40.5

Reflect: Would you invite Jesus to join you in the places you frequent? CR 40.6